My wife Miriam deserves the greatest praise of all. She is such a blessing as she encourages me daily in the ministry and keeps my feet on the ground at home! Pam Russell and her assistant Ruth Salmons have been a tremendous help this session while ministering to the needs of the ladies in the Capitol. Jenny Blankenship has redoubled her efforts to making Capitol Commission Indiana successful. She is truly the backbone of the ministry here. Nathan Barnes is our tech guy. He is currently working on the prayer blog. He recently finished Ohio and is now working on Kansas as we endeavor to have each of the 50 states represented on publicservantsprayer.org. Thank you all so very much!
Giving praise to the One Who is worthy of all praise, the Lord Jesus Christ,
Matthew Barnes
State Director, Indiana
December 31, 2011
Happy New Year!
It’s time once again for our annual family newsletter, where we share how the family has grown, changed, and been blessed! As I am writing it this year, my wife says I need to put a disclaimer here: please forgive the proud papa (and husband) perspective.
After our ministry vehicle died early in the year, God graciously impressed upon the hearts of those in the capitol community and a few friends of the ministry to provide the funds for a new car for us! Never having owned a brand new car, I am still in awe. At this point, it has more than 20,000 miles on it and runs like a dream. Praise the Lord! Furthermore, we were blessed by the Lord to have specified funds provided to re-side and re-roof our huge, 3-story barn. We just couldn't bear the thought of tearing down a 150 year old barn, especially with a last name like “Barnes”!
Miriam stays extremely busy balancing the many aspects of being a ministry wife and homeschool mom. She is in her 8th year as an educator, with Sarah in 7th grade, Micah in 5th, and Emma in 2nd. She coached Emma in soccer in the spring and fall, and is now serving as Secretary on the board of the Decatur County Youth Soccer Club. She hosted a Fourth of July party with about 125 people attending, hosted a Harvest Party with nearly 200 people attending and hosted numerous travelers coming through the "Crossroads of America!" In her spare time, she kept the family schedule in line with the ministry schedule, edited my attempts at writing, coached junior high girls basketball, grew and canned a large garden, played piano for our church, and even spent several weeks helping her mom in Michigan. Miriam is thrilled that her sister Anna recently came home safely after a year deployment to Afghanistan. We are all thankful for Anna’s sacrificial service.
Sarah is almost 13 and excels in many things. She was one of the top goal assist leaders in soccer this year. She also passed a referee test, and began refereeing soccer games as her first job. She is in the middle of basketball season right now, and her quick reflexes and height help her shine on the court as well. Sarah still loves to read and can often be found with her nose in a book. She has the artsy eye of her mom and enjoys creating unique and beautiful necklaces and earrings. In addition, she is a quick and ambitious learner in making delicious food. She is becoming quite a lovely, mature, young lady.
Micah is a tall and inquisitive 10-year-old. While looking for shoes earlier this year, he picked out a pair of shoes that would fit me. I was shocked to discover that my son's feet were the same size as my own! I enjoyed spending time coaching him in soccer this past fall. Micah also likes to play basketball, where he is developing into a great center for his team. His major interests lie in anything mechanical and engineering. He is a master designer of Legos, constantly creating new inventions. He is curious about how things work and wants to understand the processes behind everything.
Emma is still a bundle of energy, joy, and fun. At 7 years old, she is quite an adept athlete. The soccer field she played on this year seemed way too small for her. She is also excelling in her school work, completing two or more days of school in one. We may need to even bump her up a
grade mid-year! She always has a quick wit and ready smile, brightening days all around. She makes new friends everywhere she goes. Our dog of 10 years died this year, and we now have a new puppy, thanks to Emma and her siblings encouraging Dad to get a new one. In fact, our new puppy (Zoe) has a similar personality to Emma - full of life and friendly.
Well, that’s the family news, from our house to yours. If you'd like to see family pictures from the past year, you may click here.
We pray you and your family have a blessed new Year!
Matt, for the Barnes Family
Matthew Barnes
State Director, Indiana
P.S. For important information regarding 8th Annual Statehouse Prayer Service click here.
November 21, 2011
Happy Thanksgiving!
I hope this week of remembering the manifold blessings of God in your life will yield much gratitude. We are studying Ecclesiastes in our weekly Statehouse Bible studies. It has been a great source to remind us what life is all about. It is all about the Lord! Everything He allows us to be stewards of is just an extra benefit. "Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation." Psalm 68:19 "Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits." Psalm 103:2 As we go through this week and begin the Christmas season, let us remember that gratitude is an antidote for materialism!
Tomorrow is "Organization Day" at the Statehouse. The legislators will be coming in for a largely ceremonial day of getting organized and ready for session to begin in January. (One of the representatives will not be there because he is on a mission trip sharing the Gospel in Africa.) The Capitol community is much like a family, and it will be nice to see folks we haven't seen regularly in a few months.
Here are a few updates and prayer requests -
- Anniversary - This month marks the seventh year anniversary of Public Servants' Prayer. The Public Servants' Prayer Ministry was the name of the ministry in the early stages and continues as a prayer ministry at publicservantsprayer.org. It is hard to believe we have been in the ministry that long, but as the old saying goes, "Time flies when you're having fun!"
Salvation - A couple weeks ago, after our weekly Statehouse Chapel Service, a dear soul accepted Christ as personal Savior! It was wonderful to see the Lord draw someone to Himself. Praise the Lord for the fruit He brings! Some plant, some water, but it is God who gives the increase!
Save the Date - Wednesday, January 4th, 2012 will be our 8th Annual Statehouse Prayer Service. Please plan to attend and bring a friend or a busload! How powerful it would be to have the Statehouse filled with God's people praying for their leaders on the first day of the 2012 session! Last year we had an estimated 300 people join us for this event. To put that in perspective, the first one we had seven years ago had about 25-30 in attendance. The Prayer Service will start promptly at 12:00 noon.
Harvest Party - Nearly 200 supporters and friends gathered at our home to celebrate the many blessings of God this year. Two legislators gave short testimonies regarding their faith and what ministry looks like in the Statehouse. Many guests were surprised and inspired to hear a legislator share a clear message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Praise the Lord that He puts men and women who love Him and His Word in places of authority.
Bible Campaign - We have another opportunity for you to participate in supplying Bibles to our newly elected legislators. If you would like to give to this special campaign, please click here or mail a check made out to Capitol Commission for 40 dollars per Bible to -
Capitol Commission
P.O. Box 2004
Indianapolis, IN 46206
Counting Our Blessings,
Matthew Barnes
State Director, Indiana
September 28, 2011
I hope this note finds you well and enjoying the beautiful fall weather!
Video Interview
A pastor in Madison County asked if he could interview me on a new program highlighting good things going on in and around their county. At the risk of damaging the camera, (I have a face for radio) he and the producer arrived at the Statehouse to record on location, in the chapel. Below is the link to the interview from Spotlight Madison County News.
Click here to watch the video
September 11
In September, I was invited to participate in a couple of 9-11 services, one in Fort Wayne and one in Tipton. The church I spoke at in Fort Wayne had a 5K run the day before and had many National Guard, firemen, and police at the service Sunday. It was a spectacular day. In the evening we went down to Tipton High School where a near capacity crowd provided an atmosphere that was quite simply, a "Slice of Americana."
Reintroducing Public Servants' Prayer
Our prayer blog, www.publicservantsprayer.org, has undergone several new upgrades this year, including this new logo -
We are also announcing a new tool to assist churches in praying for their leaders. We have designed weekly bookmarks for distribution in church bulletins, overhead projector announcements, printed bookmarks, church email prayer lists, etc. This exciting development will provide specific information about Indiana legislators including photo, spouses' name, hometown, church affiliation, contact info, etc. We hope this information will assist in making prayer for leaders a priority as mandated in 1 Timothy 2:1-4. If you and/or your church are interested in becoming a part of the Public Servants' Prayer Partnership, please let us know. The program is slated to begin January 1st, 2012. Our desire is to see many churches praying for, and ministering to, every Indiana legislator, every year. Below is a sample bookmark.
Harvest Party
You are invited to our annual Harvest Party at our home on Saturday, October 22, from 2-8 p.m. in the "Big Red Barn."
We are planning all of the usual activities: hay wagon rides, volleyball, games, Bible skits, food, fun, and fellowship. Please let us know if you can come and we will send you more information.
In His Service,
Matthew Barnes
State Director, Indiana
August 23, 2011
It has been a busy summer, but God's grace has been evident, as I am sure you would agree!
There is more to share than I can fit into this update, so I'll try to be brief and respect your time.
Joplin, MO - "Sheds for the Gospel" -
In July, I invited Hoosier legislators to join me on a mission trip to Joplin, MO. We met up with 14 different legislators and the Lt. Gov. of Missouri to assist in the relief efforts after the devastating tornado. Paul Meinsen of Capitol Commission Missouri organized the trip, and while we worked hard, it didn't seem to even make a dent in the need. As they say, "You have to see it to believe it!"
Our particular crew was assigned to help the Grace Baptist Church in their goal of building 100 storage sheds. Their vision is to establish relationships for the purpose of sharing the hope found in Christ and Christ alone. We built three sheds in three days. This seems so insignificant, especially compared to the fact that 8000 homes and 1000 businesses sustained heavy damage.
A neighbor stopped by the parking lot where we were building the sheds and asked how much they were going to cost. We directed her to the pastor, and she wept as the pastor informed her that the church would give her a shed at no cost.
I have mentioned to many people that I would not be surprised to see the Lord bless Joplin with tremendous spiritual blessings as a result of their churches working together to display the love of Christ so freely and unselfishly.
As we drove through the devastation one day, we saw a twisted church building on a hill. All that remained after the tornado was the giant steel cross in front. (see picture below) It was a great reminder that we have a Leader Who is acquainted with our grief and understands our sorrows. It's still the cross!
The trip to Joplin was a blessing in many ways. Spending time with legislators, and sharing the love of the Lord in a practical way were two special highlights.
Kansas -
Dave Depue, a fellow missionary friend of mine who ministers in the capitol of Kansas, has been experiencing amazing fruit of his faithful pastoral care in the capitol. Here is an excerpt from his latest newsletter -
"Each Monday morning I meet with Governor Brownback to pray about the challenges of the week ahead. We also have prayer team volunteers come in each day to pray through the Capitol, praying for our leaders by name and praying over the weekly list of issues.
I have been teaching an interim Bible study for leaders & staff each Wednesday. We are studying leadership using the Apostle Paul as a role model.
We also lead a 5 PM devotional hour for leadership in the Secretary of State’s Office Wednesday and the leadership team of Social & Rehabilitation Service on Thursday.
Most weeks there are one or more legislative committee meetings in the Capitol. We greet Senators and Representatives, praying for individual needs. Sometimes we join one or two of them for lunch and host leaders in our home for a meal or cookout."
Dave was also recently featured in a newspaper article. If you'd like to read more about how the Lord is using Dave in Kansas, please Click here.
Prayer Requests
Please pray with me, that God will continue to call, equip, and send men and women into this unique mission field to proclaim the glorious Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
There have been recent headlines about leaders acting dishonorably. Pray that the Lord will continue to shine the light on their sin, that they would repent and receive the forgiveness He freely offers.
Lest we think of ourselves as immune from such failings, remember that we are all susceptible to sin. (Romans 7:18-19 and Titus 3:1-3)
Thank you for your continued prayers and support.
Blessings,
Matt
Matthew Barnes
State Director, Indiana
June 24, 2011
What do Tennessee, Georgia, Ohio, and Missouri all have in common? Capitol Commission Indiana of course!
After session we needed to reconnect as a family, so we took a trip together to visit friends and family through the South. First, we stopped by Nashville, TN and met with Dennis Kiser and his wife who serve in ministry in the TN capitol. They provided us with a tour of the capitol complete with "behind the scenes" ministry places. They also took us out on the "front porch" of the beautiful Tennessee Statehouse. (See picture)
We traveled on to Georgia to meet up with several more Capitol Commission folks. Capitol Commission Georgia state director Dr. Ron Bigalke and his wife Kristin had been asked to set up a display for a missions conference in a large church in Atlanta. We were thrilled to be able to attend and assist in a small way. Also at the conference were the president of Capitol Commission, Jim Young, and others from the National office. (See picture)
After Atlanta we went to Florida to visit with Miriam's family living in Florida. It was a wonderful time for a break from the rigors of session. A word that would describe session schedule for legislators, staff and lobbyists alike would be grueling. It is a privilege to serve alongside our elected leaders and get a sense of their schedule. Please pray for us as we connect with pastors and leaders around the state during the summer. We have already put more than 5000 miles on God's new car in a mere 7 weeks, and that's not including our trip South!
A couple of days after our return home to Indiana, my son Micah and I went to Columbus, OH to see a Bible presentation to the legislators in the Ohio Capitol. That event was a result of Hoosiers leading the way in giving a Bible to all of our state elected leaders last year. Praise the Lord for His people and His Word! We were also able to attend a Statehouse Bible study led by my colleague, Tom McCullough, with Capitol Commission Ohio. He is such a humble man serving in a magnificent way. (See Picture of Micah and me in the Ohio Capitol below)
In early July we are making a trip to Joplin, Missouri for a Capitol Community Work project to help those affected by the tornado. Paul Meinsen, of Capitol Commission Missouri, is organizing the project and we are planning a trip to aid and assist their efforts. It appears that more than 10 legislators from Missouri and Indiana will be participating. Please pray for our safety, productivity, and fellowship.
Thank you for your faithful prayers and financial support of this ministry. We are continually amazed at how our Lord supplies our needs according to His riches in glory. We met our budget this month, due to several special gifts. We also had another church take us on for regular monthly support this month. PTL! A pastor recently asked me how we were doing financially and I told him that committed monthly support has risen to 50% of our budget. He responded by asking how we continue in ministry. It really is a simple answer. God is good, and His people listen when He prompts them to give. Again, thank you for praying, as that is the key to the Lord's success in using cracked clay pots such as we are. "I am a nobody, but anybody can do what nobody does, if anybody would believe that Somebody can do anything with nothing!"
Be sure to check out the changes to our blog www.publicservantsprayer.org. You can also find us on www.twitter.com/mattrbarnes and www.facebook.com/barnes.matthew
Have a great summer loving and serving the One Who deserves all praise,
Matthew Barnes
State Director, Indiana
April 25, 2011
God is so good,
God is so good,
God is so good,
He's so good to me.
This is a simple chorus I remember singing to my younger siblings and eventually my children. Nevertheless, the message is truly profound. God is good and does good. (Psalm 119:68) Even when I don't like what He is doing or allowing in my life, He is good by definition.
For the past four months my family and I have been praying for a good gas mileage vehicle for me to drive around the state. We put tens of thousands of ministry miles on our vehicles each year. On January 4th, the car God had given us a couple of years ago died. I remember telling God that day that I wasn't sure why He allowed His car to break, but it was His and He could do what He wanted to with it. So, for four months I have been blessed to drive borrowed vehicles while wondering what God's plan was. Throughout this process people began to hear of our need and gave generously toward the car fund. I tried numerous avenues to purchase a vehicle and had people watching for good deals. For a variety of reasons, each deal fell through.
God's plan is mysterious and His ways are past finding out. Last Thursday I was given an envelope in our Legislators' Bible Study that contained contributions from virtually every part of the Statehouse community. Although I never asked for a penny, God prompted folks from the Executive Branch, Senate, House of Representatives, Legislative Assistants, Legislative Services Agency, Doorkeepers, Lobbyists, and Interns to give. There was a certificate in the envelope that was quite humbling:
We were encouraged by several contributors to buy a new vehicle. I have never owned a new vehicle and felt funny doing so. However, we shopped around and found what an independent advisor informed us was "the deal of the century." Thanks to each one who prayed for and contributed to this unbelievable blessing. Here is a picture of God's new car. It is a Honda Civic, made right here in our hometown of Greensburg, IN!
Along with this tremendous blessing, God has furthered ministry in more ways than I could have ever dreamed.
- Miriam and I were invited by a Congressman out to Washington D.C. this year. We attended the National Prayer Breakfast and saw the President in person. It was truly a memorable experience.
- I have been asked by the Indiana Speaker of the House to be available to open the House in prayer in the event there is no pastor on any given day. I will be praying in the House this Wednesday, Lord willing.
- We have had numerous pastors attend our Pastors' Commission to the Capitol every other week this year. During these events we provide physical food (Panera Bread) and spiritual food (free books, Bibles, and pastoral care). At one of these morning meetings, a senator thanked me for the books we give away at our table. They were able to send one to a family member who had tragically lost a loved one last year.
Please pray for us and all of our state legislators this week as we wrap up this last week of session. There is much pressure and there are likely to be late nights as there have been the past several weeks. It's not unlike running a marathon in sprint time!
Grace and Peace,
Matthew Barnes
State Director, Indiana
March 25, 2011
I just wanted to drop you a note regarding an article on World Magazine's website about Capitol Commission Indiana. It is written by Russ Pulliam and highlights the need for ministry in the political arena.
There are several gracious quotes by legislators in the piece. I praise the Lord for what He is doing in and through us in the Indiana Statehouse. Please continue to pray us and for your leaders.
http://online.worldmag.com/2011/03/25/i-love-politicians/
Here is an excerpt - "Barnes also sets a good biblical example of church-state cooperation for larger public purposes, in the spirit of Jeremiah 29:7, when Jeremiah instructed the Israelites in exile to seek the welfare of a pagan land. Church-state conflicts tend to attract more headlines, but the church and state can help each other when they follow their biblical assignments and respect their distinct yet not necessarily separate purposes and spheres."
Click the link below for a shorter version of this column that appeared in the Indianapolis Star newspaper earlier this month.
http://www.indystar.com/article/20110304/OPINION07/103040315/
To God be the glory, great things He has done!
Blessings,
Matthew Barnes
State Director, Indiana
P.S. Go Butler University Basketball!
January 31, 2011
Thank you for your prayers this past month. I met with a freshman legislator recently and the word he used to describe this legislative session was "Intense." Please continue to pray for physical stamina, grace, and peace for everyone in the Statehouse community.
January brought record attendance in all four Bible studies. We lead studies for legislators, executive branch leaders, ladies, and staffers/interns/lobbyists. Recently we had nearly 30 legislators in the Governor's office for a Bible study. Every chair and couch had folks sitting in them. I even remarked that we might need to move our Bible study to the Senate chamber if we keep growing!
Pam Russell is continuing to foster meaningful relationships with ladies in the Statehouse and is beginning to understand the legislative process and the busyness of session. She is a quick study and is well liked by all who meet her. She leads the Capitol Ladies Study every Friday. We praise the Lord for calling her to work with Capitol Commission Indiana.
Nearly 300 people came to the prayer service on January 5th. Many legislators, judges, media, pastors, Statehouse staff, and Hoosiers from around the state attended. The Holy Spirit was evident in countless ways, most notably in the audible prayers of His people. A man came to me afterward and told me that he was sitting near two ladies who wept through the service. Another man said, with tears in his own eyes, that he was deeply moved. It truly is a phenomenal experience to hear elected leaders proclaim Christ so clearly in their prayers.
Click here for audio of the 7th Annual Statehouse Prayer Service in the news.
Rev. Matthew Barnes opening 2011 Statehouse Prayer Service.
I was honored to be asked to give the invocation and benediction for the Inauguration of three state-wide elected officials on January 6th.
Left to right - Secretary of State Charlie White, Auditor of State Tim Berry, Treasurer of State Richard Mourdock, Rev. Matthew Barnes, Former Republican Party Chairman Murray Clark, Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman, Supreme Court Chief Justice Randall Shepard
A pastor, who's church supports our ministry, was in the Statehouse recently. I recounted to him that I felt like a doctor who makes his rounds. Indeed, a legislator has described me as the spiritual doctor of the Statehouse. I am glad that there is a Higher Physician to Whom I can turn to for just the right prescriptions to be given and in the appropriate dosage. Praise God that His Word has answers to life's perplexing questions. Without the Lord, His Word, and a hope of eternal life, I would be of all men most miserable!
If you are a pastor or know a pastor who would like to participate in a "short term mission trip" to the capitol, please check out the details of the Pastors' Commission to the Capitol.
Miriam and I are heading to Washington D.C. this week to meet with leaders. Please pray for safety of travel and divine appointments.
Praising God for His Faithfulness,
Matthew Barnes
State Director, Indiana
January 4, 2011
This is a short update to remind you of the Statehouse Prayer Service and share a great picture with you.
Below is a picture of Congressman Marlin Stutzman and his family at his swearing in. He was sworn in on November 16th with the special edition Capitol Commission Indiana Bible. Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi is on the far right.
This photo is courtesy of the AP
7th Annual Statehouse Prayer Service
Here is the schedule of the individuals praying this year -
Welcome and Opening Prayer -Speaker of the House Brian Bosma
Prayer for Families - Sen. Greg Walker
Prayer for Pastors and Churches - Pastor Anthony Slutz - Indianapolis, IN
Prayer for Judicial Branch - Founder of the Judicial Family Institute - Mrs. Jan Aikman Dickson
Prayer for the Military/Safety Personnel - Pastor Andrew Green - Kokomo, IN
Prayer for the Media - Editorial Cartoonist for the Indianapolis Star - Gary Varvel
Prayer for Staff and Lobbyists - Commissioner Carolene Mays
Prayer for the House - Rep. Peggy Welch
Prayer for the Senate - Sen. Dennis Kruse
Prayer for the Executive Branch - Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman
Closing Prayer - Pastor Kelly Barnes - Sunman, IN
The service will be on Wednesday from 12 noon to 12:30 p.m. in the Indiana Statehouse North Atrium.
There will be a free Chick-Fil-A meal immediately following the service.
Indianapolis Parking Map for the Statehouse Prayer Service.
We will post pictures to Facebook as soon as possible @ www.facebook.com/barnes.matthew
We hope to see you there!
Matthew Barnes
State Director, Indiana
November 11, 2010
There is so much to say about this past month. I will attempt to share it with you in a brief update.
- Tow truck - Many of you saw my posts on Facebook regarding my tow truck experience, but I'd like to give a few more details. I gave an update at a pastor's meeting in Lapel, IN and afterwards a kind man approached me. He is a tow truck driver and said the Lord had led him to offer his card and services should I ever be in need of them. I thanked him and put the card in the console of my car. The next morning I was on my way to another pastor's meeting in Noblesville when my car completely stopped running on I-465. After I pushed the car to the side of the road I sat in the car, glanced in my console and breathed a prayer of thanks. Right there was a number I could call for assistance. I called the kind man with the tow truck and he was more excited than I was! He picked me up and even took me to the church where I was headed. I was reminded of the passage in Scripture that says God knows our needs before we ask. He can prepare a tow truck before we need it. How awesome is our God?
- Harvest Party - The Harvest Party went extremely well this year with nearly 125 people attending. We had great food and fellowship, rode in the hay wagon, played games, enjoyed Bible skits, and listened to music from the “Strings of Hope.” I know many of you were unable to come, so we'd love to have you next year, Lord willing.
- Churches/Prayer Services - We were blessed to be able to share about the ministry in one new church and two supporting churches this past month. We also had positive feedback on the services that we had encouraged churches to have regarding the election. I was honored to attend two of them, one in Sunman and one in Nappanee. Here is a comment from one man who attended - "Before tonight, I had never prayed for a candidate for office before!" Praise God for the opportunity to publicly lift our current and potential public servants to Him!
- Bible Studies - I have been learning so much in the current Statehouse Bible study. I'm amazed at the way the Word is coming alive and the relevance it has for the capitol community. We are in Daniel chapter 4. You can access the studies here.
- Texas - I am honored to have been asked by Capitol Commission Texas State Director Don Garner to be the keynote speaker at an event in Dallas later this month. I'm thrilled to have an opportunity to share with other state legislators, business and community leaders what the Lord is accomplishing in the political arena. Please pray for safe travel and the right words to say! (Psalm 19:14)
- Election thoughts - I was asked to write the "thank you" note to the nationwide Capitol Commission donors in November. Here is the text of my note and my thoughts as they relate to ministry in the political arena.
Blessings to you and Happy Thanksgiving!
Matthew Barnes
State Director, Indiana
September 29, 2010
What a month September has been!
Matthew just before delivering a Bible to a Congressman
- I am thrilled to report to you that the trip to Washington D.C. was a tremendous success. I was able to be in D.C. with two Capitol Commission State Directors from Illinois and Maryland. Our time was facilitated greatly by a friend of mine who is in ministry on Capitol Hill. He blessed us with the ability to stay in his home and use a parking space a block from the House office buildings on the Hill! Thanks again George!
First let me say that it was through your prayers and those of many others that allowed for so much to happen in so little time. I think before we left we only had 3-4 meetings confirmed. We ended up personally meeting with 8 congressional members and numerous staffers!
The meeting that was perhaps the most surprising was the Divine appointment of my friend from Illinois. He had been trying to set up a meeting with a particular Congressman for weeks to no avail. As we entered the restricted area of the Capitol with a Member of Congress, the very Illinois legislator he had been trying to meet with slid into the elevator we were riding!
I was blessed to meet with four members from Indiana - two Democrats and two Republicans. I was honored to pray with some of them in their offices as well.
Matthew and Congressman Mike Pence
I was also able to meet with several staffers and get a behind the scenes look at life on the Hill from a staffer's perspective. It could probably be summed up in two words - busy and stressful!
I was surprised how much ministry presence was on the Hill. There are several organized Bible study groups but many informal ones too. We had one estimate of 10,000 staffers on Capitol Hill. I'm not sure if that's accurate, but it certainly allows for many ministry opportunities.
- "Pre-Election Prayer Service" I had envisioned holding an Election Eve Prayer Walk at the State House on November 1st, but the Lord directed otherwise through various incidents. God then broadened the vision to include churches around the state in their locations. I can see this event eventually encompassing all 92 Indiana counties just before each election! Wouldn't it be amazing if churches would put such an emphasis on praying that God would appoint those to office who would honor Him in public and private duties? As Christians, we are encouraged to cast our care upon Him for He cares for us. We need to lay each one of the candidates before Him and trust in His Providence!
To that end we have designed bulletin inserts and posters for you to promote your own Pre-Election Prayer Service (Click here for the bulletin inserts). We also urge you to print your own sample ballot by clicking here. You are free to host this event at your church, home, park, VFW hall or wherever. You can have the service any time before the election. I would suggest targeting the weekend of October 30- November 1st. Please let us know if you are participating, as we would love to pray for each event specifically. If you need more information you can email us at indiana@capitolcom.org.
- Click here for our monthly prayer calendar to pray for all of the state leaders currently in office.
- We were able to participate in several events, including praying and singing at an event in Portland, IN, and speaking at a "Hero Sunday" service in Fort Wayne.
Barnes Family in Portland, IN
- Please continue to pray for the new Capitol Ladies Bible Study that started two weeks ago. Pam Russell, our new Director of Women's Ministry, reports that the group is growing and has a great core of ladies who are promoting the study in creative ways.
- PTL! On a financial note, just this year we have been put on the mission budget of five new churches! We praise the Lord for continuing to meet our needs as we minister in the political arena. He is so faithful! We'd like to thank those of you who have followed the Lord's leading to support us in your personal giving as well. FYI, we currently have 51% of our annual estimated operating budget in committed monthly contributions. We are anticipating about 20% more in special contributions this year. We appreciate your investment so very much!
Thanks to each one of you for your prayers. They were very evident this past month.
Also, we would like to invite you to attend our annual Harvest Party on October 23rd. For more information click here.
Your Missionary to the Indiana Capitol,
Matthew Barnes
Matthew Barnes
State Director, Indiana
September 1, 2010
August has continued the snowball progression of our ministry. (Yes, I said snowball. I am trying to think cooler thoughts than the record breaking string of 90 degree weather here in Indiana! :) I had an experience many years ago that taught me about the incredible power of a snowball rolling downhill. My brother, sister and I were determined to create the largest snowman ever. The result was a broken watch and a broken arm after the snowball careened out of control and crushed me.
I am thankful that our Faithful Father is the Powerful One in control of our ministry in the political arena! After nearly six years of laboring in the Indiana State House, we are pleased to announce that the Lord has brought a new staff member to our ministry: Pam Russell, as our Director of Women's Ministry. You can view her biography here.
In getting to know Pam over the last several months, I am struck by the discretion and adeptness she has exhibited in the political realm. She is well qualified to teach Ladies' Bible Studies and counsel the ladies in the Capitol complex. Pam will be having an informational meeting this Thursday for her new Bible Study entitled "The Scarlet Thread." She is also joined by Ruth Salmons, a wonderful administrator willing to help Pam launch this new phase of ministry. Praise the Lord for furthering the Gospel in the nerve center of society! Someone recently told me that they struggle with getting ahead of God. I pondered that for a moment and thought I might be quite the opposite - I have trouble keeping up with His plans. Again, I am glad He is in control and not I!
This past month I was honored to be asked by my Congressman to open a town hall meeting in prayer. I was also able to present him with the Special Edition Bible that we have been privileged to give to many leaders here in Indiana. You can now own your own copy of this Special Edition Bible. The Kirkbride Bible Company will graciously donate half of the proceeds to Capitol Commission Indiana.
Later in the month of August, my family and I had the opportunity to speak at a church where we had not previously spoken. It is always an encouragement to be able to share the testimonies of what God is doing in the Indiana State House with folks who have a heart for God and recognize His work.
In our weekly Executive Branch and Staff Bible Studies we are continuing our study in Daniel entitled, "Daniel, Chief Counsel to Kings". God's Word is always relevant to our lives! You can view the outlines of these studies here.
We are looking forward to this coming month where we will be in Fort Wayne, Gaston, and Washington D.C. I am singularly amazed at how the Lord works out details for our trips. Please pray especially for my D.C. trip, that I will be able to make contact and deliver Bibles to more Indiana Congressmen. I also hope to meet with Congressional Members from other states, as I will be traveling with two other Capitol Commission State Directors.
My son Micah and I were able to attend a Cincinnati Reds game a couple of weeks ago, courtesy of Tim Pauley (Capitol Commission Director in the West Virginia Capitol). This was special, not only because I enjoyed spending time with Tim and Micah, but also because I am a huge Reds fan. Go Reds!
We appreciate all who have taken the time to jot us a note of encouragement and let us know that we are in their prayers!
Matthew Barnes
State Director, Indiana
August 9, 2010
Have you thought recently about how temporary life is? Psalm 103:15-16 illustrates life as a flower that briefly blooms and quickly fades. Scripture is replete with reminders that Christians are pilgrims, strangers, aliens, etc. The danger in the political arena, as well as any other arena, is to fall into the trap of self importance and the idea that we are indispensable. I have been pondering these questions recently... With such a short time on earth, what am I doing for lasting change? What is the most important thing to accomplish while here on this pilgrimage?
I am fascinated by politics. However, I know that politics are not the lasting answer for our nation's ills. While politics tackle symptoms, Christ struck a crushing blow for the cure on the cross! The Good News of Jesus Christ is that He came to seek and to save that which was lost. I love my country, but I love my countrymen more. In the short time I am allotted on this earth, I want to dedicate my life to eternal, not temporal, purposes. I recently heard the testimony of a prominent Indiana legislator who came to Christ as a result of his seat mate on the floor of the chamber witnessing to him daily. What an awesome testament to the power of a Christian public servant serving God and serving his fellow Hoosiers at the same time. That is eternal change in the midst of temporal change. I am increasingly grateful that I serve an eternal God and that he uses a temporary me!
We have started a new series in our State House Bible studies recently on the life of Daniel. It's amazing how a prisoner in a foreign land could have such influence in the lives of several kings spanning more than seven decades. One attendee remarked at how similar Daniel's life is to the folks who attend the studies. Praise God for His Word and the lessons we find therein!
I was privileged this past month to be in church services with two Indiana legislators in their districts, as well as other county leaders and emergency personnel. These services were designed to honor the officials for their willingness to serve in the public arena, per 1 Peter 2:17 "Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king." One of those churches decided to start contributing monthly to this ministry via their mission's fund. Praise the Lord for raising up churches and individuals to partner with us in ministry in the political arena!
In late July we were blessed to attend Miriam's family reunion at their cottage in Northern Michigan. We have many good memories associated with this annual trip, including my proposal to Miriam thirteen years ago! We were also grateful to be able to go with the extended family to Mackinac Island this year, thanks to a generous gift from some good friends in Logansport, IN.
We will be in several churches in the coming weeks. If you, or someone you know would be interested in hearing more about Capitol Commission Indiana, please contact us for scheduling. We'd love to share the testimonies of what God is accomplishing in the Indiana State House and beyond!
Our virtual prayer calendar continues to grow each month. If you would like a daily email of three leaders to pray for click here. If you would prefer, I publish a link daily on 
and 
. Of course we also have the original down-loadable monthly printable calendar here as well. If you have any ideas to continue to raise awareness of prayer for our leaders, I'd love to hear them.
Thank you for your continued prayers for my family and I as we minister in the political arena. Blessings through Him Who is able to do above and beyond all that we could ask or think!
Matthew Barnes
State Director, Indiana
July 1, 2010
I love politicians. Really, I do. I look at it this way. God loves people, hence I must love people. Politicians are people, therefore God loves politicians, so I must love politicians. Can you say that with me? Whisper it to yourself - "I love politicians." Did that feel kind of weird? I understand, but it is a necessary statement.
As we near this holiday weekend we are reminded of the greatness of the country we are blessed to call home. It is important to remember that it was politicians who helped form this government; it was politicians who relied on God's Divine protection; it was politicians who pledged their lives, fortunes and sacred honor for a cause that was greater than themselves. The Scriptures say that greater love hath no man than this than a man lay down his life for his friend. Would you die for a politician? Do you love them with the love of Christ?
God has opened many doors this past month to meet with leaders in Indiana. I met with the Governor a few weeks ago and the Superintendent of Public Instruction last week. I was able to give them each a Capitol Commission Indiana Bible. They were both very appreciative and complimentary of the ministry and the Bible. I also received a note from former President Bush thanking me for the Bible. (see below)
I had the opportunity this month to speak at an event in the capitol city of Jefferson City, Missouri. One comment by a legislator made the whole trip worthwhile. After giving a moving testimony about the loss of a newborn son, then the later loss of a second son as a teenager, he related what that teenage son's last words were. "What's next?" The legislator said that this was more of a rhetorical question as he could see in his son's eyes that he knew the answer. The legislator then delivered a gripping statement. He said that this was why Capitol Commission was needed in the capitol - so his colleagues in the legislature would know, when it came time to depart this life, "What's next!" Wow, the only problem with this powerful testimony was that I was scheduled to speak right after him. :)
Matthew at the Missouri State House
If you would like a prayer list specific to Indiana leaders we have provided a July prayer calendar here. You can also click here and subscribe to a daily email of three leaders to pray for.
I would like to take a minute and express our gratefulness to all of our supporters for making June a record breaking month for us financially. Praise the Lord! We were operating on a negative budget for the year and your contributions are going to help us get back even again. Most of you know that we are entirely independent of any government funds in our effort to reach the political arena with the saving Gospel of Jesus Christ. We are solely supported by the Lord and His impression upon the hearts of His people. We want to thank all of you who prayed and obeyed His prompting this month. If you sense the Lord's leading to invest with a gift or become a monthly partner with us you can click here for more information.
At a time when giving is reported to be down, you have stepped up. I can't help but think that it is because you see the need to win our nation's leaders to Christ now more than ever. Again, your gifts, and especially your prayers make this ministry possible, and we sincerely appreciate them!
Happy Fourth of July!
Matthew
State Director, Indiana
June 2, 2010
The month of May has flown by. It is hard to believe it is June already! One of the distinct highlights this month was the privilege I had to attend a Statehouse Prayer Service in Ohio. I met a dear brother whom God has called into ministry there. This is a direct answer to prayer, as I have been praying for years for the Lord to call someone to the Ohio Statehouse. There are currently 20 states that I am aware of that have full time independent missionaries attempting to reach their respective capitols for Christ! Please join me in praying for the remaining 30 states.
Matthew in front of the Ohio Statehouse
We are in the process of making some behind-the-scenes improvements to the prayer blog. We hope this will not include any down time. (I am so thankful for Nathan Barnes' and Nathan Amick's help on this project!) This blog is having a dramatic impact on the lives of the legislators being prayed for. If you are not yet receiving this daily prayer email, you can click here and follow the instructions on the left column to subscribe. We invite you to join us in praying daily for a few of our elected leaders in the great Hoosier state!
If you would like to order a special edition Thompson Chain Reference Bible, with the State seal of Indiana embossed on the front cover, you can now order it here. The Kirkbride Bible Company has generously offered to donate half the price of the Bible to Capitol Commission Indiana!
We have many more exciting things in the works, as God is giving vision and people to implement that vision. I'd like to introduce Jenny Blankenship to you. We had sent out a prayer request a year or so ago for help in the administrative side of the ministry. I am not gifted in that area of ministry! God has sent Jenny at just the right time to assist Capitol Commission Indiana. She is very talented in areas of writing skills, graphic design, Excel spreadsheets, organization, and just about anything admin related. Miriam and I are thrilled to have her selfless contribution to the ministry. Thank you for praying for us in this regard, and praise the Lord for filling the need with such competent help. If you'd like to thank Jenny for her willingness to assist us in this ministry, you can email her at jenny.blankenship@capitolcom.org
Prayer requests -
- Congressman Mark Souder resigned his position last month due to a moral failure. Please pray for him and his family.
- A member of the media in the Statehouse has been diagnosed with a very serious medical condition.
- A staffer in the Statehouse is inquiring about salvation.
- One of our financial supporting churches has had to temporarily suspend all missionary giving. Please pray for the pastor and the congregation as they struggle through difficult financial times.
- Our family as we finish school, balance ministry and family needs, and travel.
- I am traveling to Missouri this Friday after teaching a Bible study in the Statehouse. Please pray for safety on the road as well as the right words for the keynote speech that I am to deliver in Jefferson City, MO.
Praises -
- Safety for 2500 ministry miles traveled last month.
- Another month's financial needs met. We were about $900.00 short the last couple of weeks of May. We were praying that God would meet the need and a pastor called to tell me that his team had won the bowling tournament in their church league. They decided to designate the winning proceeds to a missionary. (The Barnes Family) The winnings totaled $910.00! Wow, God is so very faithful!
- Enjoying helping to coach Micah and Sarah in baseball.
- The garden we planted is doing well so far...and we don't plan on burning it this year with any fresh compost! (see Miriam for further details. :)
God Bless,
Matt
April 30, 2010
It is hard to put into words the events of the past month. It seems I am always saying the words, “Amazing! Unbelievable! Awesome!”, but those words describe our God and His work! He is at work in ways that exceed my imagination. Please bear with me if I preach a bit in this update...how can I not?
In the past month I have traveled to numerous places throughout Indiana. I was also thrilled to be invited by a pastor in Indianapolis to travel to Washington D.C. We spent three days in various strategic meetings, praying, visiting congressional offices, and delivering Bibles. As I sat on Capitol Hill, a few blocks from the White House, I was struck by this thought: It would take six months lead time and an act of a congressional member for me to get a tour of the White House. That would not even include a minute with the president. On the other hand, I was able to bow my head in a prestigious office of man and talk to the One who was in control of it all. What access Christians have! What power we hold in the closet alone with the King of kings! The One who ordains power loves us and listens to our earnest pleas.
The D.C. meetings were strategic because there is a movement afoot to see pastors and churches pray evangelistically and intercede for their elected leaders. It has been said that intercession is putting one hand on the person you are praying for and the other on heaven’s throne. Can you imagine the power of prayers that reach the throne room of the most powerful Monarch ever? The One who reigns supreme of all kings, presidents, potentates and governors, listens to the cries of His children. Keep praying!
I am third from the right.
Our family had the opportunity to visit the cities of Marion, Linton, and Kokomo to share the ministry with a current supporting church and two new churches considering supporting the work. I was also privileged to be able to speak to a group of active senior adults who responded to the testimonies of God with a standing ovation!
In the first week of April, I was invited to be the keynote speaker for the Bluffton, Indiana Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast. The mayor’s opening line referenced that he was just “a sinner saved by grace.” I was then introduced by a state senator who said, "Simply put, Matt is the face of Jesus in the State House.” I don’t have to tell you that I was more than a little humbled at that statement! It did remind me that each and every day, people should see Christ in us.
**Special Announcement** – Many have asked about purchasing the Thompson Chain Reference Bible that the leaders of Indiana received. Orders may now be phoned to Kirkbride Bible Company at 800-428-4385; faxed to 888-428-4385; e-mailed to sales@kirkbride.com.
This special edition Bible has now been given to our current president Barack H. Obama and former president George W. Bush. I actually thought to take a picture a couple of weeks ago of this one before it was given to him.
Praise the Lord for the many blessings this past month. We appreciate your prayers for us as we continue to share the “Good News” in the capitol and beyond!
God Bless,
Matthew
State Director, Indiana
March 17, 2010
On February 23rd we held the Pastors' Statehouse Day, our biggest event ever in the Indiana Statehouse. In a recent email, a pastor commented that he believed the day "may have been the most important single day in our State's history."
There were in excess of 220 people, including more than 100 pastors in attendance! We began our day in the South Government Center Auditorium listening to several speakers, including two state senators, one representative, a former Secretary of State, and a lobbyist. We were also pleased to have the president of Capitol Commission address us. They gave us a great perspective on ministering to leaders before we walked over to the Statehouse to do just that.
Matthew Barnes praying for Sen. Marlin Stutzman and his wife Christy.
Many of the legislators had arranged their schedules to come down early and were already in the Statehouse Atrium when we arrived. There was immediate buzz of activity as pastors met their respective legislators, handed them a Bible, had their picture taken with them, and enjoyed lunch together. I was impressed with the pastors who took the time to ask their leaders how they could pray for them and then prayed right there in the atrium. There were multiple prayer huddles around the various stations where pastors met their leaders. One pastor even related the story of two legislators from his area arriving at the same time. He thought there might be difficulty as they were from two different parties, so he just asked to pray with them right there. What a picture, Democrat, and Republican meeting in the Statehouse with a pastor from their area praying for them!
Pastors praying with their legislator in the Statehouse.
I was particularly surprised by the amount of pastors who responded with a desire to come to the Statehouse that day. We had pastors respond affirmatively from 42 of 50 senate districts and 72 of 100 House districts! The Lt. Gov. came down and met many of the pastors as well. She commented to me and others that the event exceeded her expectations. There are 150 legislators and after the event was over we only had about 20 Bibles that we had to take upstairs to the chambers to drop off. That means that 130 legislators made it to the event! We had about 50 legislators at our 6th Annual Statehouse Prayer Service on January 5th, and a lobbyist had mentioned to me that that was a remarkable turnout for any event. That brings into focus the 130 that attended our Pastors' Statehouse Day.
A senator recently told me that everyone in the building wants something from the elected leaders. A lobbyist informed me that it is unprecedented to have an event in the Statehouse that is not designed to get something from our leaders. That is what set our event apart from other events held there. We had the opportunity to be a blessing and minister to our leaders without expecting anything in return.
We have likened the preparation of this event to that of planning a large wedding with state leaders in attendance! It would not have been possible without all the help we received! We would like to thank the numerous people who made this event possible, especially the 25 volunteer staff, Chick-fil-A for providing the wonderful food, and the many other individuals and churches who contributed with prayers and support. We have received encouraging feedback from pastors and legislators alike. One pastor shared that the legislator he presented a Bible to had tears in their eyes as they received such a beautiful gift. Your effort was worth it!
Many people expressed an interest in purchasing one of the special edition Bibles that we presented to all of our statewide leaders. We are currently working with the Kirkbride Bible Company to see if it is possible to run another printing. Look for further information in upcoming emails.
We have had a tremendous boost in subscribers to our daily prayer email! Prayer for our leaders should be a priority! If you'd like a daily reminder with pictures, website links, and email links, please go to www.publicservantsprayer.org and fill out the information on the left column.
Thank you for your faithful prayers and support.
God Bless,
Matthew
P.S. In addition to the Bibles for our state legislators, we also printed Bibles for our national leaders, each inscribed with their own name on the front and the Indiana state seal. I am thrilled to report that the Bibles for the President and Vice President of the United States have been personally delivered to the White House last Monday by an Indiana legislator. Praise the Lord!
February 8, 2010
I am consistently amazed at the marvelous working of God in our ministry in the political arena in Indiana. This month has been no exception. We hosted our 6th Annual Statehouse Prayer Service on January 5th, 2010. What an incredible blessing it was to hear Pastors, Representatives, Senators, the Lt. Gov., and other honored guests petition our Heavenly Father for forgiveness, wisdom, blessing, etc. More than 200 people attended from inside and outside the Capitol Community. Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman commented that the Prayer Service was the best way to start session!
Left to right - Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman, Rep. Peggy Welch, Sen. Dennis Kruse, Sen. Mike Delph, Rev. Matthew Barnes, Pastor Kelly Barnes
Left to right - Darren Washington, Pastor Oddos Morris, Mrs. Jan Aikman Dickson (wife of Supreme Court Justice Brent Dickson), Rep. Steve Stemler, Rep. Eric Turner, Rev. Matthew Barnes, Rep. Peggy Welch, Sen. Dennis Kruse, Sen. Mike Delph, Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman, Pastor Kelly Barnes
If you would like to see more pictures of the event you can go to my Facebook page to view the album.
After this God-glorifying event on January 5th, our schedule kicked into an even higher gear. Here are a couple of Bible Studies I have written for the weekly legislators Bible studies.
We are also praising the Lord that we have had two new monthly donors come aboard this month. It is tremendously helpful to have regular monthly donors as we depend on the Lord prompting His people to support us in prayer and financial support. Many people automatically assume I am paid by the state as a chaplain. However, we receive no government funds and are completely reliant on the Lord for His daily provision. (Matthew 6:25-34) Praise the Lord for His faithfulness!
February 23rd is nearing, and with it our first attempt at a Pastors' Statehouse Day. If you are a pastor or know a pastor, please invite them to attend this monumental event. You can find more information on our site, or you can listen to a 10 minute radio interview about the Pastors Statehouse Day. God is miraculously supplying our need in regards to this event. Chik-Fil-A has expressed a desire to provide lunch for the legislators and pastors that day! We are still in awe of how the Lord brought in the necessary funds to purchase the special edition Bibles last year! We determined not to charge for this event as we want to be a blessing to the pastors who attend.
Prayer for elected leaders is an emphasis that cannot be neglected. To assist in this urgent need we have created a printable monthly calendar, or you can sign up to receive our daily prayer email on our prayer blog. Recently a legislator commented to me how thankful they were for this ministry and "the prayers you solicit for us."
Prayer requests -
- Please pray for Representative Dennie Oxley as he has not made it in to session this year with an unknown illness.
- Please pray for another elected leader in the Statehouse who has a child experiencing health difficulties.
- Please pray for a spirit of cooperation among our leaders and that the Christian legislators will let the light of Jesus shine through their lives as peacemakers and wise counselors.
Thank you for your consistent prayer on behalf of our leaders and this ministry.
In His Service,
December 30, 2009
We have had an incredible 2009 and are looking forward with great anticipation to 2010.
I'd like to say a great big thank you to all who have been a blessing to us through your prayers and financial support this year. "I thank my God upon every remembrance of you" Philippians 1:3.
Please consider joining us as we start the 2010 legislative session in prayer on January 5th at the 6th Annual Statehouse Prayer Service. The theme verse this year is "Men ought always to pray, and not to faint." Luke 18:1. If you are unable to make it, please pray for us.
The service is noon – 12:30 p.m., with lunch following.
Also, please save the date of February 23, 2010 for the Pastors’ Statehouse Day.
May the Lord bless you in the coming year.
To God be the glory, great things HE has done!
Matthew Barnes
State Director Indiana